{"id":5719,"date":"2025-07-13T15:51:31","date_gmt":"2025-07-13T14:51:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/safetyfirst.ch\/complete-bls-aed-src-training\/what-use-is-bls-aed-training-in-everyday-life\/what-are-the-most-common-errors-during-a-bls-aed-procedure\/"},"modified":"2026-09-19T19:28:08","modified_gmt":"2026-09-19T18:28:08","slug":"what-are-the-most-common-errors-during-a-bls-aed-procedure","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/safetyfirst.ch\/en\/certified-first-aid-training\/complete-bls-aed-src-training\/what-use-is-bls-aed-training-in-everyday-life\/what-are-the-most-common-errors-during-a-bls-aed-procedure\/","title":{"rendered":"What are the most common mistakes during a BLS-AED response?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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A BLS-AED response (Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation) is a vital link in the chain of survival in the event of cardiac arrest. However, even with the best intentions, certain technical or coordination-related mistakes can compromise its effectiveness. Understanding these shortcomings not only helps improve the quality of first-aid actions, but also strengthens the confidence of responders, whether they are professionals or trained members of the public. On this page, we explore the most common mistakes observed in the field, from chest compressions to the use of an AED, as well as organisational, ethical and legal considerations. These mistakes are both easy to correct and crucial to avoid. To better understand the importance and benefits of this type of response, discover the importance of BLS-AED in the management of cardiac arrest<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Common mistakes during a BLS-AED response: understanding them to respond more effectively\n<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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During a BLS-AED response, every action matters and every mistake can have a direct impact on the casualty\u2019s chances of survival. Chest compressions (or CPR) are the first critical step. A common mistake is delaying the start of compressions<\/strong>, even though every second without circulation reduces the oxygen supply to the organs. Interruptions that are too frequent or too long \u2013 to check the pulse or move the casualty, for example \u2013 also reduce the overall effectiveness of resuscitation.<\/p>\n

The position of the hands<\/strong> is often not properly mastered: placing them too high or too low can cause fractures or result in ineffective compressions. It is also common to observe an inappropriate compression depth<\/strong> (less than 5 cm or more than 6 cm in an adult), an inappropriate compression rate<\/strong> (ideally between 100 and 120 per minute), or a failure to switch rescuers<\/strong>, which leads to a decline in quality as a result of fatigue.<\/p>\n

When it comes to using the AED<\/strong>, many technical mistakes are reported: incorrectly positioned pads<\/strong>, pads stuck to clothing or wet skin, failure to listen to the voice prompts<\/strong>, or resuming chest compressions too late after a shock<\/strong>. Using pads that are not appropriate for the casualty\u2019s age is another recurring problem.<\/p>\n

These technical mistakes are compounded by organisational shortcomings<\/strong>: a missed or incomplete emergency call, poor coordination between responders, or hesitation to act for fear of doing something wrong. It is important to remember that not intervening is often the worst mistake<\/strong>. Finally, ethical and legal<\/strong> concerns sometimes hold first aiders back; in Switzerland, however, the law protects good-faith actions in emergency situations.<\/p>\n

Understanding, anticipating and correcting these mistakes through rigorous BLS-AED training<\/strong> is essential to improving the effectiveness of first-aid actions.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Mistakes to avoid when using an AED<\/h3>\n

Using an automated external defibrillator (AED)<\/strong> can save lives, provided that certain common mistakes are avoided. Failing to switch on the device as soon as it arrives or positioning the pads incorrectly are frequent errors. It is crucial to position the pads correctly on dry, hair-free skin and to follow the voice prompts carefully. To learn more about these technical actions, explore mistakes to avoid when using an AED<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n

Why is interrupting chest compressions critical?<\/h3>\n

A recurring mistake during a BLS-AED response is interrupting chest compressions for too long, particularly when changing rescuers or while the AED is analysing the rhythm. Every pause reduces circulatory effectiveness and compromises oxygenation of the brain. To understand the importance of maintaining a regular rhythm, discover why interrupting chest compressions is critical<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

What should you do if the AED does not detect a shockable rhythm?<\/h3>\n

Sometimes, the AED indicates that no shock is advised, which can unsettle an untrained rescuer. In this situation, the protocol is to continue chest compressions without delay. The absence of a shockable rhythm does not mean that resuscitation is pointless. To learn how to respond in these situations, find out what to do if the AED does not detect a shockable rhythm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Further developing your BLS-AED skills<\/h4>\n

Preventing mistakes also requires a better understanding of the techniques and the benefits of training. Here are some additional resources to help strengthen your skills:<\/p>\n